Snoring is often a sign of sleep apnea, in which patients go short periods without breathing while asleep. The causes of sleep apnea vary, but it is essential to visit a dental professional at Dental Now 14 to learn about treatment options and recommendations for your overall health.

The Different Kinds of Sleep Apnea

When it comes to sleep apnea, there are two common types that you should be aware of: central sleep apnea and obstructive sleep apnea. With obstructive sleep apnea, the throat collapses while sleeping and blocks the flow of air. With central sleep apnea, the body does not receive signals from the brain, telling it to breathe while sleeping. Both are dangerous and could lead to further health issues down the road without proper treatment or management of some kind.

Risk Factors

Several risk factors could increase the likelihood of developing the condition or could worsen symptoms. Some of the risk factors for sleep apnea include:

• Overweight
• Over 40 years old
• A smaller jaw
• Large tonsils or a large tongue
• Relatives with sleep apnea
• Sinus issues or allergies
• A deviated septum

If you believe you may be struggling with sleep apnea, then schedule an appointment with a medical professional who can make a diagnosis and give you recommendations for treatment.

Treatment Options

Treatment for sleep apnea could be as simple as adjusting your sleep or as complex as getting surgery. Your dental professional will explore treatment options to determine what is best for you. If you have any treatment questions, feel free to ask them so that you get the information you need to make an informed decision.

You can visit Dental Now 14 to speak with someone in our office to learn more about how we can provide effective treatment for sleep apnea. Contact our clinic today to schedule an appointment with our dentist near you.